‘A Christmas Story’ with Heart

Playing the family in “A Christmas Story” are (from left) Holy Heart of Mary High School students Sophia Ryan, Noah Davis-Abraham, Keegan Roche, Lauren Shepherd and Cameron Johnston. - Juanita Mercer

Holy Heart of Mary High School students were rehearsing on Wednesday for their upcoming production of “A Christmas Story,” an adaptation of the 1983 film.

“If you’re a fan of the film, I highly suggest coming to this play,” said Cameron Johnston, who plays the narrator, Ralph. “It’s a funny, family-friendly good time.”

Lauren Shepherd plays young Ralphie Parker. She said the students have their own interpretation of the comedy, but promises “it’s still going to be the same gimmicky, classic Christmas story.”

It’s onstage at Holy Heart Theatre Friday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at holyhearttheatre.com.

Before the show opens to the public, several local schools will take in a matinee show on Friday – a fundraiser for the school hamper program and the Community Food Sharing Association.

Last year, they raised $500 for each of those causes, plus another $500 for a student in need, and used the remaining funds to purchase easels for art students and equipment for the industrial arts room.

The performing arts students hope to raise even more this year for their two causes.